Stay alert when you introduce dog to toddler

Q: I have a 9-month-old border collie mix that I want to introduce to our 2-year-old daughter. I’m extremely nervous — is it safe to introduce the two and if so, how?

A: Your nervousness is completely understandable, and there are two parts to this process — the introduction and then subsequent interaction.

However, before we even think about introducing your daughter and the dog, you must first conduct an honest evaluation of your dog’s temperament. Has your dog ever shown any signs of aggression toward anything? That includes other dogs, small animals, children, strangers or adults. If so, use even much more caution during the introduction. Don’t rule out using a muzzle; I would recommend a soft mesh one to avoid your daughter being accidentally whipped by the muzzle.

From there, as far as the introduction goes, the dog must first be fully trained in obedience. I cannot emphasize this enough. Having control over your dog is paramount during an introduction to a child who will likely naturally engage your dog’s prey drive by her small stature and her movements.

For the introduction, make sure two adults are present and that the dog’s gear (collar, leash, muzzle) is in perfect condition. This way, if something unexpected takes place, both the child and dog can be quickly and safely removed. As for location, it should be somewhere in your house but never the child’s room or your bedroom. Select somewhere neutral and spacious. Keep your dog on leash initially and slowly introduce the two together. Correct the dog — either verbally or physically, depending on your dog’s temperament and training — for any licking of the child or any rough behavior. Never correct your child; the onus is on the dog to behave in this case, rather than the child.

As for future interaction, your daughter and dog should never — and I mean never — be left alone together, not even for a minute. Take your dog off-leash after the initial introduction but always keep a keen eye out for any signs of aggression or unacceptable behavior.

By following this process, you should be good to go in no time.

T.J. Hopkinson is the training director of San Diego K9 Training. He can be reached by email at tj@sdk9training.com